BRICS Expands Again – Indonesia Gains Full Membership in Historic Move

BRICS has expanded its influence with Indonesia’s entry, marking the bloc’s growing dominance in emerging markets and securing its first full membership from Southeast Asia.

Indonesia Joins BRICS: Southeast Asia’s First Seat at the Global Power Table

Indonesia’s accession to BRICS as a full member has been officially confirmed by Brazil’s government, with the announcement made on Jan. 6. Brazil, holding the current BRICS presidency, disclosed that Indonesia’s entry aligns with its leadership term, which commenced on Jan. 1 and will extend through Dec. 31, 2025.

The development follows Indonesia’s pursuit of membership, accelerating after the 2023 Johannesburg Summit. By becoming part of BRICS, Indonesia stands as the first Southeast Asian country to join the bloc as a full member. The announcement states:

BRICS leaders endorsed Indonesia’s candidacy during the Johannesburg Summit in August 2023, as part of the group’s expansion process for full members. Due to the 2024 presidential elections, Indonesia formally notified the group of its interest in joining BRICS only after the establishment of its new government.

“In 2024, the BRICS countries approved by consensus Indonesia’s membership in line with the guiding principles, criteria, and procedures for expansion agreed upon in Johannesburg,” the announcement adds. This step reflects BRICS’ ongoing efforts to broaden its reach and strengthen ties with emerging economies.

Brazil’s government welcomed Indonesia’s inclusion, highlighting its economic significance and population size in Southeast Asia. The announcement details:

As the largest economy and most populous nation in Southeast Asia, Indonesia shares with other BRICS members the support for the reform of the global governance institutions and contributes significantly to the deepening of Global South cooperation.

Recent BRICS expansion brought in multiple new participants. In January 2024, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) were formally inducted into the bloc. While Saudi Arabia received an invitation, its membership remains pending. This enlargement highlights BRICS’ evolving role and dedication to amplifying the voices of the Global South. Moreover, the economic bloc has added nine nations as partners, with Russia indicating that four more may join soon. A Russian official confirmed that Belarus, Bolivia, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Cuba, Malaysia, Thailand, Uganda, and Uzbekistan have joined as BRICS partners.